Allium Bodrum Resort & Spa

The Western Mediterranean and the Greek side of the Aegean Sea are justifiably famous, but often overlooked is Turkey’s Bodrum Peninsula, home to landscapes and seascapes that are every bit the equal of their western neighbors. It’s a matter of local pride, and of course within Turkey this place is rated extremely highly — Allium Bodrum Resort & Spa, in the harborside town of Yalikavak, joins a dizzying array of ultra-luxe resort developments. What sets this one apart isn’t so much the location or the concept but the execution: Allium exhibits a tastefulness and a thoughtfulness that’s far beyond the norm.

Its architecture is impressive without being ostentatious, its interiors luxurious without opulence. And while the comforts are certainly first-rate, there’s plenty of old-fashioned coziness on offer as well, thanks to surfaces in rustic warm wood and textiles with a handmade quality. With their direct views of the Aegean — that’s every room — these are top-shelf luxury rooms, but in the local context the look reads as charmingly “shabby-chic.” There’s a pier offering swimmers access to the sea, a spectacular heated outdoor infinity pool (seasonal), and an elaborate spa and wellness complex, naturally.